DEAR SAVVY SENIOR: What are the IRS income tax filing requirements for retirees this tax season? My income dropped way down when I retired last year in 2016, so I’m wondering if I need to even file a tax return this year. DEAR NEW: There are several factors that affect whether you need to file a federal income tax return this year, including how much you earned last year , the source of that income, as well as your age and filing status.